Can’t believe that in just two weeks, MSB and I will be heading to St. Louis for the conference! This will be number three for us–should’ve been #4, but the Minneapolis trip got canceled by a hurricane.

This is the first year I’ll be going with nothing particular to do. Twice before, I went because I was a finalist in either the Genesis or the Carol; last year, Brad and I had our new manuscript to pitch. This year, I’m giving back, volunteering many of my hours there to giving back to an organization that has done so much to help me. I’m excited about it.

We’re leaving early to enjoy a few days of vacation. We’ve never been to St. Louis. We’ve been to Branson, to the Bass Pro Shops in Springfield, and to the Precious Moments Chapel in Carthage, but never to St. Louis. Both times we were in Indianapolis, MSB got to go sight-seeing–there’s a lot a person can see there that’s just a walk away–but by the time the conference was over, I was too tired to go to places he’d visited. This time, we’re doing vacation first. I need to get busy, though. We only have two things planned: an evening riverboat cruise that includes dinner, and a trip inside the arch. And of course, dinner out with the Penwrights, my ACFW critique group. Totally excited about that!

But I’m also looking forward to seeing everyone again, networking with friends, learning from the stars in the business. No matter where you are in this writer’s journey, there is always something more to learn, and there is always something you can do to help others. Organizations like this rely on the “pay it forward” mentality. The visible handful can’t do everything. They need the behind-the-scenes folks to chip in and help. I’m excited to be able to offer my time this year.

Are you going?